Gearhead Breaks Wide Open at Johnny B's Front Porch

Lately, there's been a crop of brand new bands playing in our reachable area, from Tallahassee to NOLA and it seems like more and more are busting out with their own versions of classic cover tunes, to new and exciting originals never before heard here on the emerald coast. One such new band of seasoned pro's is this review's focus.

GEARHEAD, a 3 piece variety band out of Foley, Alabama made their grand debut at Johnny B's Front Porch in Lillian on April 20.

GEARHEAD is Russell Baum, Keith Richardson and Dominic Demonico, three very talented musicians with obvious decades of experience playing a variety of music from the 70's to present.

As we were walking in, the first set had just begun with a rendition of Spirit's I GOT A LINE ON YOU. I knew from jump street these guys were here to entertain. They didn't waste a minute before jumping into THE HOUSE IS ROCKIN by SRV, followed by a Blink 182 number ALL THE SMALL THINGS. I was instantly impressed with their varied licks and riffs. After a throwback put me into a tailspin, NEVER BEEN TO SPAIN by 3 Dog Night took me back to a by gone era rife with classic music still heard and played today.

The lead player, Russel Baum demonstrated his prowess as a guitarist and singer. His laid-back style and demeanor are only shadowed by his playing technique. His riffs and runs were spot on and when the man played rhythm, it made everyone want to get up and dance! D Lady and I couldn't resist making our personal impression on the dance floor. Thanks Russel!

Keith Richardson, the bands timekeeper certainly made a lasting impression on this writer. As I am also a drummer, I lock into a player's technique when I watch another brother drummer bash away on his kit. I've been playing for over 50 years, and each time I zero in, I never fail to get a drum lesson. Keith took The Beatman to school with his spot-on timing, melodic rhythms and chops that reminded me of many of the outstanding drummers of the 70's, 80's, and beyond.

Dominic Demonico, who happens to be a personal friend of mine, reminded me of so many professional bass men that exude high level stage presence. Not only can this man play the living sh*t out of instrument, his attitude and style keep you interested and wondering what he'll do next. Jumpin around, moving from one side of the stage to the other, he can't stand still for long at all. Doms been around the pro music scene all his life and played, and met many well-known musicians. Dominic works so hard on stage, after the first set he had to change his shirt! Bet he lost a few pounds the way he kept us all in a state of attention! He reminds me of the way Jaco P. kept everyone on their toes throughout a performance.

They continued with their first set, (all I had time to stay for) with more and more little played music heard round these parts. MY LITTLE GIRL by Jeff Healey, a number I just don't hear at all, was executed with pure, professional integrity.

They ended with a killer version of DIRTY WHITE BOY, a Foreigner favorite of so many, but rarely heard up and down our glorious coast of venues, bars and restaurants. What a refreshing change from the tired tunes touted by so many artists and bands. The Beatman recommends you go see these fine gentlemine the next time they play at a venue near you. I guarantee you wont be disappointed!

Many thanks to Johnny B's Front Porch in Lillian, Alabama for allowing yours truly to make an announcement about our show calendar and upcoming "Scene" events.